September 2023 Kit List

This month, we’re giving the ultimate Summer Adventure Prize with First Ascent, Orms, WILD Cooler, SKOON., Felix Unite and Jack Black! You can win a trip for 6 to the Orange River, plus coolers, beer, sunscreen and a camera to capture those awesome memories. 

The Orange River (South Africa’s largest river) in the Kalahari sun in Southern Namibia is not just any old trip - you’ll spend days floating down the river enjoying great meals with warm campfires and great company as you overnight under the African sky. To top it all, the water is warm and the weather is generally perfect "all year round". 

If you believe in manifestation or plan to spend some summer time there regardless, read on for our Orange  River Kit List this September. Meanwhile, we’ll be in the office manifesting summer to come soon - it looks like it’s going to be a hot one.

Yak Sac Duffel

Although not fully waterproof, the Yak Sac Duffel is the ideal bag to strap on your kayak or boat on the Orange. Choosing a colour other than black is something to consider to avoid the adverse effects of the harsh Kalahari sun.

First Ascent Yak Sac Duffel Bag

Ultralight Drybags

Definitely include a couple of dry bags to separate your clothing, and to ensure the contents of your bag stay dry, just in case you experience a sudden downpour! 

First Ascent Dry Bags

Amplify 900 Synthetic Sleeping Bag

For the cooler months, the Amplify 900 Synthetic sleeping bag is a great option for any Orange River excursion. Include a liner with this, for any unexpected temperature drops. The desert's conditions can fluctuate, so being prepared is essential. 

Amplify 900 Synthetic Sleeping Bag

Compact Down Blanket

For the summer months, a compact down blanket is a better option, with nighttime temperatures being far too warm for a sleeping bag.

First Ascent Compact Down Blanket

Lunar 2 Person 3 Season Hiking Tent

The Lunar 2-person 3 Season Tent is highly breathable and well-ventilated. The tent features two doors and a peelable fly sheet to allow for better airflow. Take the fly sheet off, and you’ll be staring into the stars.

Lunar 2 Person 3 Season Hiking Tent

Lightweight Groundsheet

Alternatively, setting down a lightweight ground sheet, with your mattress on top, is a more minimalistic approach. This is great for warm summer nights, where falling asleep under the stars can be experienced as clearly as ever.

First Ascent Lightweight Ground Sheet

The Comfort Light Self-Inflating Mattress

The Comfort light self-inflating mattress is thick enough to ensure a comfortable night's rest after a long day of paddling on the river, whilst still being light and packable enough to be hassle-free when packing it up and moving to camp.

First Ascent Comfort Light Mattress 

Ladies Sun Hoodie

It’s important to keep your skin protected from the sun. Sun hoodies are the perfect breathable and lightweight cover with UPF 30 protection. Using S’Cafe technology, coffee grounds are embedded in the yarns to help with odour control, keeping it clean for longer.

First Ascent Ladies Sun Hoodie

With this, you’ll be set for the perfect summer adventure out on the river - if not the Orange, the same applies to any river adventure this summer. Stay hydrated, protect your skin, and have a blast!

Learn more about Felix Unite’s river trips here.

Be sure to check out our other blogs on hiking trails and the best camping spots in South Africa!

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